Your gut might be doing more than just digesting your food. Recent research suggests that gut health could play a surprising role in heart disease, even influencing your risk of a heart attack. But how exactly are the trillions of microbes in your digestive system connected to your heart?
Dr. Alok Chopra of Aashlok Hospital, Mumbai, shared an eye-opening video on Instagram, where he has 144k followers. He wrote, “Did you know? Your gut health isn’t just about digestion; it could be linked to your heart, too. A compromised gut may silently raise your risk of a heart attack. Keeping your gut clean and healthy is more important than we ever knew before.”
In the video, Dr. Chopra explains the complex link between gut health and heart health. He highlights that the gut hosts trillions of microorganisms, including bacteria, viruses, and fungi. When balanced, these microbes help digest food, absorb nutrients, regulate metabolism, strengthen immunity, and reduce inflammation.
How A Compromised Gut Can Affect The Heart
Dr. Chopra points out that a damaged gut lining (often called a leaky gut) allows harmful bacteria and toxins to enter the bloodstream. This triggers chronic inflammation throughout the body. Over time, inflammation can accelerate the buildup of arterial plaques, narrowing the arteries (a condition known as atherosclerosis), which can lead to heart attacks.
Another concern he mentions is TMAO (Trimethylamine N-oxide), a compound produced by certain gut bacteria. High levels of TMAO are linked to increased risks of heart attack and stroke, even in people with normal cholesterol and blood pressure.
Foods That Support Gut Health And Heart Health
Dr. Chopra points out that diet plays a crucial role in maintaining gut health. He recommends:
High-fibre foods: Fruits, vegetables, legumes, and nuts help feed healthy gut bacteria.
Probiotics: Yoghurt, kefir, and fermented foods support a balanced microbiome.
Omega-3 fatty acids: Found in fatty fish, flaxseeds, and walnuts, they reduce inflammation and support heart health.
The key takeaway from Dr. Chopra’s advice is that a healthy gut can help protect your heart. By making mindful food choices and supporting your microbiome, you may reduce the risk of heart disease naturally.
